JOHN’S, ANTIGUA (June 25, 2026) – The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association unveils its latest professional in the Unveiling Hospitality Professional Series, Karen Joseph, who is recognized for her remarkable contribution to Sports Tourism. A love that began at an early age for the sport of netball.

Born and raised in the village of Seatons, Karen Joseph began playing netball at the age of 11 with the Pares Secondary School alumni netball team. Recognizing her natural talent and potential, her then coach, Yvonne Williams Willis, continuously encouraged and pushed her to excel, further deepening her passion and love for the sport. Her journey continued with the Combined Schools Team, where she competed in Barbados and Trinidad, quickly emerging as a standout athlete. By her mid-teens, she had earned selection to the senior national team, marking the beginning of an extraordinary sporting journey that would span decades.

Throughout her illustrious playing career, Joseph proudly represented Antigua and Barbuda on the international stage and later the West Indies team, participating in major tournaments, including the World Netball Tournament in Singapore at just 15 years old, where she was the youngest player on the team. The team ranked number six in the world at the time, making the experience one of the highlights of her netball career.

Karen Joseph also participated in tours across the Caribbean and the United Kingdom. From 1990 to 2003, she served as captain of the national netball team, leading with distinction and helping elevate the profile of the sport nationally. In 1992, Karen Joseph made history as Antigua and Barbuda’s first Sportswoman of the Year. By 2003, her exceptional talent and dedication saw her ranked among the world’s top goal shooters, reportedly achieving the distinction of being ranked number two globally.

Photo caption: Karen Joseph stands beside the street sign named in her honour in her hometown of Seatons Village (Photo credit: Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association)

Following her retirement from active play, Joseph seamlessly transitioned into leadership and mentorship roles within the sport. In 2017, she was elected President of the Antigua and Barbuda Netball Association (ABNA), a position she has since retained through multiple re-elections, reflecting the confidence and support of the netball community.

In addition to her administrative leadership, Joseph has coached several national teams, including the under-16, under-23, and senior squads. Her commitment to youth development and grassroots programmes has played a significant role in rebuilding and strengthening netball in Antigua and Barbuda.

Karen Joseph’s contribution to sport extends beyond the court. In recognition of her lasting impact and inspirational legacy, a street in her home community of Seatons was named in her honour. She has also contributed to national development through her work as a Sports Tourism Officer within the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment.

Today, Karen Joseph remains a respected pioneer, mentor, and ambassador for sport in Antigua and Barbuda, inspiring future generations through her leadership, passion, and unwavering dedication to excellence.

Watch Karen Joseph’s Inspiring Story Here: https://youtu.be/okzbR9VzA0k?si=_z31Wd5x86CTB6jb